Good Neighbour Clive Opens The Colton Arms
Volunteering pensioner cuts ribbon at refurbished Greyhound Road pub
The Colton Arms pub in Greyhound Road has officially been reopened by local hero Clive Domm, an 85 year old pensioner who has dedicated 24 years to helping others.
Clive was chosen to open the pub because of his long service to the Fulham Good Neighbours, in which he helps those less mobile to get out of the house or accompanies them to appointments.
His dedicated service recently led to him being given an award by Mayor of London Sadiq Khan, who described him as "inspiring".
Clive started volunteering in his 60’s after caring for his elderly mother and says it helped him to recover after suffering a stroke ten years ago. He says: " Volunteering keeps you young and gives you a purpose in retirement."
After opening the pub by cutting the ribbon at the officia, Clive enjoyed lunch and declared the Colton Arms' Fish & Chips "the best I've ever had"!
The pub, part of the Hippo Inns chain which also includes The Lillie Langtry in West Brompton, has been a family affair, run by Dorothy and Norman, together with their son Jonathon for 52 years.
After being relatively untouched for all these years, The Colton was in need of a little TLC. Now it has been lovingly restored, husband and wife team Rupert and Jo Clevely in the design of the pub, such as the copper bar, original tongue and groove panelling, log fire and handsomely carved antique wooden furniture.
The pub describes itself as " a village local in the heart of West London, with its brass bar tops, wood panelling and open fires. It’s warming in winter and convivial in summer. It’s the ultimate hideaway for a summer drink in the seclusion of the walled garden or cosying down by an open fire. Your secret unspoilt little corner of London."
The pub is also a favourite with tennis fans, offering the best view of Queens Club tennis tournament - from the window in the ladies' loo! The tennis theme continues in its indoor‘Raquet Room glass conservatory and outdoor terrace, which in the past has received a ball or two over the wall.
Find out more at The Colton Arms website.
February 3, 2017